I'm taking my four year old to Rome this August (I know, it's hot - what was I thinking?!). We have about 7 days before we will need to head to Barcelona. I am hoping to spend this time somewhere en route (or at least not far out of the way) that is less hot and kid-friendly. Was thinking Turin or in the Languedoc region of France - any suggestions on a location/accomodate would be very welcome.

If I were a 4-year-old I'd want to stay in a beach town (not only because it can be cooler if you are close to the sea). There are plenty to choose from - - Camogli is particularly pretty; Finale Ligure and Alassio have long broad beaches and plenty accomodation; Monterosso gives you access to other Cinque Terre towns; Sta. Margherita Ligure is gorgeous but the beaches fairly small. (I've only mentioned Italy becuase if I were 4 I'd be in it for the gelato too.)

A big problem will be the crowds (and pick pockets). Why August, which is by far the most expensive month?

stresa.org beautiful north of Milan in Italy

a few miles from the Simplon Pass lake beach

all of your coastal areas will be quite hot.

check climate guides weather2travel.com

Get up towards tha alps if you want to get cool.

Otherwise be sure you have AC in your rooms.

I was just in Rome it was hot already and my room

had AC but they would not turn it on.

So I was sweating to the oldies all day and night.

Good luck!

Thanks for all the suggestions - I've never heard of most of those places so I'll look into if they are convenient by train (we will not be renting a car). Curious that all suggestions are in Italy - any thoughts on France?

We wish we had flexibility on dates but have to go in August to meet up with family before school starts. We definitely have in-room AC in Rome - don't think we could survive without it since we are from Canada and not used to heat. We've already promised gelato every day while in Rome!